FREMONT (AP/KCBS)—California health officials say that the flu is now widespread throughout the state, and that one new death of person under 65 has been reported, bringing this season’s flu-related deaths to five people.

Dr. James Watt, the state’s communicable disease chief, said flu activity has seen a steep increase in recent weeks and is expected to peak in February.

“Especially last week, we’ve had a significant rise in young kids as well as patients from nursing homes,” said Halimi.

But flu vaccines are readily available in the Bay Area and Dr. Halimi said it’s never too late in the season to get one.

Officials said everyone over six months old should be vaccinated, but particularly vulnerable groups include:
– pregnant women
– children younger than five years old
– adults age 65 or older
– those with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes
– people living in nursing homes or long-term care facilities
– those who care for at high-risk, including health care and day care workers.

The flu vaccine takes two weeks to become effective. The flu accounts for more than 23,000 deaths in America each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

The website Health Map Vaccine Finder can help you track down nearby vaccines using your zip code. (Follow-up phone calls are still recommended as availability can change quickly).
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